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Gas Tank Art For The Non Artist

Discussion in 'XJ Modifications' started by gman, Jul 22, 2011.

  1. gman

    gman Member

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    I can't draw a lick but for reasons unknown to me. I am pretty good with Photoshop.

    Anyone tried making their own vinyl appliques and applying them to the gas tank during the painting process?
     
    gman, Jul 22, 2011
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  2. HirsuitHeathen

    HirsuitHeathen Member

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    Not yet, but if you prep the tank well enough and paint it all up and stick it on I would clear right over the image and seal that puppy in there for good.
     
    HirsuitHeathen, Jul 23, 2011
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  3. MiGhost

    MiGhost Well-Known Member

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    Just make sure you clear coat after applying the vinyl graphics to seal the graphics in the paint. That is how the manufacturers do it nowadays.

    Ghost
     
    MiGhost, Jul 25, 2011
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  4. gman

    gman Member

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    Thanks for the feedback. I realized I may of posted this on the wrong forum.
    I was interested in hearing about the creation of phase of the decal.
    More of a graphic arts/computer question than a bike question.
    The end goal is to put it on a motorcycle.
     
    gman, Jul 25, 2011
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  5. c_muck

    c_muck Member

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    You would want to create the graphics in a vector-based program like Adobe Illustrator so the curves and edges are smooth and it can be sized up to exact dimensions. If you were to take a photo of the tank from a direct side angle you could use it as a template to make sure your design fits well. Then find a print shop that has a vinyl printer and go for it.
     
    c_muck, Jul 25, 2011
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  6. SecaSuca

    SecaSuca Member

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    Usually the vinyl sign shops love to do even small jobs. And the graphics, like the ones you see on city buses are getting really good. Call them up and see what format they need their graphics in first, that way you can bypass any set up fees. Even then, it is usually about $25-$50.
    Put up some pics when you finish!
     
    SecaSuca, Jul 25, 2011
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  7. gman

    gman Member

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    I like the idea of using photo as a template. I will take a look at illustrator, always thought it was just a castrated version of Photoshop.
     
    gman, Jul 25, 2011
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  8. RoadRash

    RoadRash Member

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    I did exactly what you want to do, and it worked beautifully. Created the design in Photoshop, then uploaded the electronic file to an online printhouse. I used Spraymax 2k clear coat over the graphics and tank. The Spray Max was super-easy to use. Will definitely use it on my next guitar build!
     
    RoadRash, Jul 25, 2011
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  9. Polock

    Polock Well-Known Member

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    don't know what you had in mind but you might find something useful
    here
     
    Polock, Jul 25, 2011
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  10. gman

    gman Member

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    Thanks. I scored an artist who will draw it for me.
    Now I just have to wait until winter when I take the bike off the road to do it.
     
    gman, Jul 25, 2011
    #10

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